Gerald Lee Kirby

Services for Gerald Lee Kirby, 83, of Ardmore, are scheduled for 10:00 A.M., Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Wilson. Interment will follow at Hewitt Cemetery in Wilson.

Gerald was born November 25, 1942, at Wilson, to the late Mr. Louis Wesley Kirby and Mrs. Eula Estelle (Carroll) Kirby. He departed this life Saturday, October 31, 2026, in Ardmore.

Gerald was raised in Ardmore and attended Plainview High School with the Class of 1961. Soon after, he enlisted in the United States Army and served for three years before being honorably discharged in 1966. On August 11, 1967, in Ardmore, he married the love of his life, the former Lana Fay Bridgman. Together they made their home in Ardmore and built a life centered on devotion to family, hard work, and shared adventure. In 1971, Gerald went to work at the Michelin/Uniroyal Tire Plant, where he remained until his retirement in 1996. He was remembered as someone who was fun to be around both at home and at work, and those who worked with him often said he was the best supervisor they had ever had. Gerald had a rare gift for working with his hands and his mind. He could build or fix anything, and he even built two homes from the ground up for his family, a lasting reflection of his skill, determination, and love. Gerald lived life with energy and enthusiasm. He loved the outdoors and found happiness in cutting wood, gardening, and tending his rose bushes with great care. He was known for growing the hottest peppers and then challenging others to try them. A thrill seeker at heart, Gerald delighted in taking the kids to theme parks, where he eagerly rode the wildest rides. He also enjoyed traveling, making many trips that included plenty of stops along the way to see every attraction possible. He loved fireworks and even experimented with creating his own for the ultimate explosive show. An avid hunter and gun collector, he embraced adventure fully, yet what stood out most was his selfless nature and the steady way he cared for others, especially his family, who always knew he had their back. Gerald will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his strong work ethic, his remarkable abilities, and the joy he brought to those around him. Above all, he will be remembered as a man who loved deeply, lived fully, and gave generously of himself to the people he cherished most.

Preceding hm in death are his parents, Louis and Eula Kirby; brother, Wilbur Kirby.

Survivors include his wife, Lana of the home; daughter, Sherry Harris and husband Troy of Ardmore; son, Christopher Kirby of Ardmore; grandchildren, Kamee Kiser and husband Ty, Kaylor Harris, Calee Kirby and husband Caden; great grandchild, Curtis Perry; brother, Gary Kirby and wife Carolyn; sister-in-law, Joni Wellington and husband Daniel; numerous other family, and many friends.

Pallbearers will be Troy Harris, Joe Wood, Mike Kirby, Tony Woehst, Daniel Wellington, and Daniel Wellington, Jr.

Honorary bearers are Randy Wood, Dan Harris, and Travis Harris.

Visitation will be held from 5 – 7 P.M., Wednesday evening, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Wilson.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.